Chaparral High to host first annual Hit-A-Thon fundraiser, April 5

The Puma baseball program was tossing around ideas over the past couple of months in regards to bringing extra money into the program and it seems like they have come up with an idea that could be a home run.

It’s no secret that all high school sports programs rely on a good amount of funding, which is usually provided by outside sponsors and donations. When Chaparral’s Assistant Varsity Coach Kevin Newby threw an option out to parents about something that he had done with his former teams in the San Diego area, the idea took off like a fastball.

The idea involves players of all ages, a few baseballs, a bat and a field with fences. Much like your run of the mill jog-a-thon, the Puma’s will be raising money by hosting a hit-a-thon.

The event is being held on April 5 from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. and is open to the public.

Fifty-five Puma baseball players are currently trying to raise money for the hits they believe they will bring to the table. Donations can be made on the amount of hits, the distance of the hits, or can even be made on a per hit basis. As a part of the fun, there is also room for 100 other hitters to sign up and participate, no matter the age or skill level.

Craig Johns, proud Puma parent and the man from the PSG that raised his hand to run the event said, “It seems like most non-profits are doing auctions and golf tournaments these days. We figured since we are a baseball program, let’s tie in some baseball. The exciting part of baseball has always been hitting and especially the long ball home run.”

The outer fields at Chaparral High will be transformed into a carnival-like atmosphere and San Diego’s famous DJ and event manager Steve Eicher (www.uniquemobilesounds.com) will play music and entertain the crowds all day.

Jolly Jumps, a pitching speed booth, and a dunk tank are just some of the things that Johns says will be on hand from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. for families to take part in.

“We also wanted to include our whole community, so there is something for everyone at the event. The invite has been sent out to the local leagues like TYB, TVALL and Murrieta’s Pony League, as well as softball leagues like TVGSA, MVGSA and even the local travel ball clubs as well. Come have some fun, help our local kids and watch some incredible hitters,” added Johns.

More information on the event can be found at www.pumasbaseball.org. Craig Johns can be reached for more information at [email protected] or (951) 972-2906.